Arusha:Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez announced that Venezuela has rejoined the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) with full rights. A Venezuelan parliamentary delegation is participating in the IPU's 153rd Assembly in Tanzania.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rodriguez shared on social media that the assembly, taking place from October 5 to 9 in Arusha, gathers parliamentarians worldwide to discuss parliamentary diplomacy and international cooperation.

A video released by Rodriguez shows IPU President Tulia Ackson reading a document confirming Venezuela's reinstatement with full rights. The process began on September 17 during a conversation with IPU Secretary General Anda Filip, as reported by media outlets.

The Venezuelan delegation includes National Assembly Second Vice President Grecia Colmenares and lawmakers Jose Gregorio Correa and Saul Ortega. Venezuela's return follows years of contention over its parliamentary representation amid a prolonged political crisis.

The IPU previously reviewed Venezuela's representation, with a 2021 delegation led by Rodriguez meeting IPU officials in Geneva to restore dialogue. Rodriguez attributed Venezuela's exclusion from political polarization and disputes over representation.

Venezuela's reinstatement occurs as Caracas aims to enhance its international organization participation and expand parliamentary diplomacy. The 153rd IPU Assembly agenda covers governance, inclusion, peace, sustainable development, and international parliamentary cooperation.

The IPU, founded in 1889, is a global organization of national parliaments promoting dialogue, cooperation, and diplomacy, comprising 183 member parliaments.